An LNG-fuelled Capesize bulk carrier ordered by NYK to be deployed to transport iron ore and coal from Australia to Japan under a long-term consecutive voyage charter contract with JFE Steel Corporation (JFE) has been handed over and named ‘SG Ocean’ at Japan Marine United Corporation’s Tsu Shipyard.
The vessel is the first Capesize LNG-fuelled bulk carrier to be built at a shipyard in Japan, according to NYK research. NYK is expanding its fleet of LNG-fuelled vessels to meet the NYK Group’s goal of reducing GHG emissions by 45% from 2021 levels by 2030 while taking on the challenge of decarbonising an entire supply chain.
The vessel name SG Ocean reflects NYK’s ‘Sail Green’ brand, which emphasises reducing GHG emissions through the transport of goods and contributing to the eco-friendly supply chains of customers, and the image of a vessel sailing in the open ocean while protecting the environment.
By burning LNG as fuel, the vessel will emit close to zero SOx, 75% less NOx, and 25% less CO2 compared to existing HFO-fuelled vessels. Additionally, the vessel will be compliant with the IMO Tier III NOx emission regulations. The vessel uses the latest 7X62DF-2.1 iCER dual-fuel slow-speed diesel engine by WinGD. This engine halves methane emissions when using LNG fuel. In addition, due to careful consideration of the equipment and arrangement of the LNG fuel tank and LNG fuel supply system, this ship will maintain the loadable quantity and cargo hold capacity of conventional bulk carriers of the same size despite the increased weight of additional equipment.
SG Ocean is 299.9m long, with 210,000 dwt capacity at 25m draught.
Image: ‘SG Ocean’ (source: NYK Line)
